Computer hardware refers to the essential components of a computer system—that are associated with the computer, especially the CPU. The technician’s knowledge of computer hardware should extend to the motherboard, power supply, keyboard, mouse, and display.
In this post, we’ll go over the definition of computer hardware, its main pieces, and how trained professionals can safely troubleshoot PC hardware.
- Right Angle Power Strip
Electrical items, including laptops, audio/video equipment, network devices, power tools, and lights, can all benefit from having their dedicated outlet on a power strip. Strip, rack, and cabinet/bench mount designs are all on the table.
We no longer have to decide between two electrical devices to share an outlet because of the invention of power strips. A right-angle power strip allows several devices to share a single wall outlet. Keep in mind that not all comics are the same. Simply put, a power strip is an extension cord with multiple outlets—typically 6–12. In addition to supplying electricity, surge protector-equipped power strips can prevent harmful electrical currents from surging through sensitive electronic equipment.
- The central processing unit (CPU)
The central processing unit (CPU) coordinates a computer’s activities and exchanges data with its peripherals. Because of its many moving elements, a computer’s central processing unit (CPU) is often considered among the most complex components of any computer. A technician may examine the fan and remove dust or dirt from the computer’s interior if the central processing unit (CPU) is malfunctioning. A computer technician’s checklist could also include testing the functionality of the system’s power cables. A central processing unit (CPU) cannot operate without a signal from the power supply.
- Motherboard
The motherboard provides the framework for the rest of the components and the connections between them to distribute power, deliver data, and connect peripherals like a printer or mouse. It determines things like the transfer rate of data and the capabilities of the display device. It contains the central processing unit, main memory, and supplementary storage devices.
When diagnosing computer problems, a technician may remove the motherboard and check for corrosion on the various connections. They might also double-check that the PC is getting power from the outlet.
- Random Access Memory (RAM)
While actively used by programs, such as when a user runs an application, data resides in RAM. A technician can tell what kind of RAM a computer has, swap out bad RAM, and figure out why it’s having trouble moving data around in memory.
A technician should be familiar with the various RAMs on the market and have some idea of the faults that could compromise a computer’s RAM. Before attempting to fix RAM, a technician may fully back up the computer to ensure that no important files are lost.
- Video graphics array port
Video graphics array (VGA) ports are ubiquitous on modern computer displays because of their high quality and versatility. The first step in diagnosing a problem with a VGA port can be to check for a loose connection, a damaged cable, or a malfunctioning display. A computer repair technician’s checklist could also include spraying pressurized air into the VGA port to clear debris.
- Cooling fan
Computers include cooling fans to prevent the hardware from overheating. Users that put their computers through rigorous activities like video streaming or gaming can benefit from the presence of many cooling fans on modern laptops. If a user observes that their computer is overheating, they may need to have it looked at by a computer professional to repair its cooling fan. They may examine the rotors for signs of wear and tear and clear them of any obstructions. Technicians often resort to replacing computer fans as a defense against overheating.
- Hard drive
Disk drives are the primary storage media for a computer’s data, including applications, documents, and media. Information is stored digitally on magnetically covered discs called hard drives. A computer maintenance specialist may suspect a corrupt hard drive as the cause of a failing hard drive. Either they’ll replace the hard drive or utilize data recovery software to get the computer working again.
- Monitor
A computer monitor is a visual display device for what is happening on a computer. To prevent static electricity from damaging computer monitors, some professionals use special anti-static gloves. Disconnecting the display from the computer and using a different power cord are additional possible troubleshooting steps.
- Printer
This machine uses ink and paper to make duplicates of whatever you feed it. Common printers include laser and inkjet models, and some IT professionals have experience fixing problems with both. Tech support staff can check the printer’s power supply and do other maintenance tasks. They may also double-check that the paper tray is stocked and ready to go. Ink and toner cartridges can be refilled or replaced by technicians.
When a printer’s hardware components check out, but the machine still won’t print, a technician will investigate any software issues in the printer’s interaction with the host computer. As opposed to a broken printer part, this issue is more likely to result from a malfunction in how the various systems interact.
- Scanner
A scanner is an electronic tool for making digital images and making them accessible on a computer. A computer repair person may open up a malfunctioning scanner and give it a detailed inspection to see whether it has been damaged. If there are no obvious problems, they may examine the cable that supplies the electricity. In the same way that a printer’s connection to the computer is established through software, a technician will check to see if the scanner is receiving data from the computer.
Final Thought
In this era of the pandemic, when education, payments, board meetings, and everything else have moved online, computers have become essential to survival. Why wouldn’t we want to learn more about computers if they’re so crucial to our daily lives? Therefore, we have included details on computer parts.
